Like other puffer fish, the grass puffer accumulates the neurotoxin TTX to discourage would-be predators. However, grass puffers also accumulate a non-toxic analog of TTX called 5,6,11-trideoxyTTX ...

The more common northern puffer fish usually has black or dark green spots and a yellow to white belly, according to the DEM. While this species is not poisonous, it’s recommended to clean them ...